With plenty of joy was celebrated the 492 years anniversary of Panama La Vieja. Once again is commemorated this important date.
Schools, foundations and independent bands participated in the civic parade that started at Estatua Morelos (Morelos Statue) and ended at Puente del Rey (King’s Bridge).
People of all ages, citizens and foreigners enjoyed the different tunes brought by the musical bands that were present.
A request to the authorities was submitted in favor of keeping this celebration alive.
The city was founded on August 15th of 1519 by Pedro Arias Davila (Pedrarias), this being the first Spanish settlement in the Pacific Ocean coasts.
The foundation of Panama took over the previous cities of Maria la Antigua del Darién and Acla, turning into the capital of Castilla de Oro. On September 15 of 1521, was received by means of the Royal Decree, the title of City and a Coat of Arms granted by Carlos I of Spain.
Subsequently, in 1671, the city was attacked by the English pirate Henry Morgan, with plundering intentions, and for the safety of the population and their possessions, the Captain General of Tierra Firme, Juan Perez de Guzman, orders the evacuation and the blowing of the powder deposits which created a very large fire that destroyed it entirely, with the ruins standing until nowadays, including the cathedral tower.
The whole monumental complex of Panama Viejo is recognized as part of the World Heritage.
The city of Panama was rebuilt in 1673, located at 2 km west-southeast of the original city, at the skirts of Cerro Ancon, known today as the Casco Viejo of the city.
